New Drug Shows Promise Against Excessive Daytime Sleepiness for People Who Have Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Individuals with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) face more severe challenges with feelings of sluggishness and lethargy during the daytime. Usually, an espresso would help them solve their problem. But a team of researchers from McMaster University has made a significant breakthrough by identifying a drug that holds promising potential for addressing this issue without consuming caffeine.

According to the 2021 study, excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is a particularly disruptive symptom experienced by individuals with OSA and can affect daily functioning. It manifests as overwhelming urges to sleep during inappropriate times, such as while driving or eating, and often hinders their ability to perform even simple tasks effectively.

Best Treatment for Daytime Sleepiness of People With OSA

The drug solriamfetol has been identified by researchers Dena Zeraatkar and Tyler Pitre from McMaster University as the most effective treatment for excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) in individuals with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the news release reported.

While the standard treatment for OSA involves the use of a positive airway pressure (PAP) mask that supports lung airways during sleep, some individuals still experience EDS and may benefit from anti-fatigue medication.

Zeraatkar and Pitre published the findings of their paper, titled "Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Wakefulness-Promoting Agents for Excessive Daytime Sleepiness in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea," in the Annals of Internal Medicine. They conducted a systematic review of 14 clinical trials involving 3,085 individuals and analyzed data from various sources to arrive at their conclusions.

Tyler Pitre, the first author of the study, explained that using a PAP machine is crucial for individuals with OSA; but if they still experience excessive sleepiness, medications can offer options to reduce fatigue.

OSA affects a significant number of people globally, with a prevalence of 15 to 30 percent in North America alone. Many individuals with OSA experience symptoms that impact their quality of life and productivity; it may also put them at risk of other psychological issues.

The research conducted by Zeraatkar and Pitre highlights the importance of improving the treatment of OSA and EDS, considering the significant number of individuals affected by these conditions globally.

Potential Side Effects Need Further Research

Researchers suggest that further investigation is needed to understand the pros and cons of solriamfetol, particularly regarding its long-term effects, as there is limited evidence on its extended use. Additionally, Science Alert reported that the potential benefits of the drug and similar medications may extend beyond individuals with OSA and EDS.

Assistant anesthesia professor Dena Zeraatkar noted that it would be interesting to explore the effectiveness of these anti-fatigue medications in treating related conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome and long COVID, given their efficacy in a similar conditions. However, more research is needed on these illnesses to address their underlying causes.

Considering potential side effects, one must exercise caution. For example, solriamfetol has been associated with increased blood pressure. Nevertheless, given the high prevalence of OSA globally, affecting as many as one billion people, there is an urgent need to find better treatments.

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